Travel has been on somewhat of a seesaw lately. We’ve seen a steady increase in the number of Americans getting vaccinated against the coronavirus but cases of the delta variant continue to rise. Many of us have stayed close to home for well over a year only to find ourselves postponing or even cancelling travel plans. All of this uncertainty has considerably fueled our desire to travel and we‘re now just itching to get up and go. Domestic leisure trips have taken center stage in recent days but that hasn’t quelled our wanderlust as we continue to dream about those once-in-a-lifetime trips to exotic, far-flung destinations. With this in mind, let’s have some fun by taking another look at a number of magical journeys that just might help to satisfy some of the restlessness we’ve been feeling of late. This is the second post in a continuing series.
Oman and an Arabian Adventure
When you think of Oman, you probably don’t think about it as a likely travel destination. Well, it’s actually one of the easiest countries in which to travel. Their infrastructure is superb, the Omani people are very helpful and friendly, and it’s one of the safest countries to visit, either as a solo traveler or in a group. With its mesmerizing Arabian charm and absolutely dreamy landscapes, a trip to the Sultanate of Oman is an experience like
no other. The perfect balance of modern and old Arabia makes this place vacation-friendly yet culturally rich. Muscat, a city among the hills and beaches, is a must-visit for those seeking culture. In fact, it’s the nation’s largest city and the seat of government. High-rises are nowhere to be seen in this city center, only traditional buildings, allowing Oman’s ancient past of being a key trading post to be kept alive. The city has maintained its old charm with even newer structures having Arabian detail. The emerald-blue beaches and exciting water sports also attract adventure enthusiasts from around the globe. Make it a point to explore the beautiful outskirts as well; hire a local guide to seek out hidden waterfalls, picturesque canyons and a turquoise oasis in the desert valley. Other thrill-inducing bucket list activities here include sand surfing, camel riding, camping under the stars and kayaking with magnificent humpback whales.
Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
What could be more unforgettable than getting up close and personal with gorillas, the majestic giants of the African forest? In Uganda, the Pearl of Africa, you’ll be able to do just that. Uganda is a wonderland in all senses from the mighty King Kong that rule the impenetrable forest of Bwindi to chimpanzees, our closest cousins. Gorilla trekking is such a thrilling primate experience which any visitor on an Ugandan safari shouldn't miss out upon. Though trekking is a very captivating activity, it’s important to thoroughly plan your trip. Wild Uganda Safaris is a local tour company with hands-on expertise to plan this once-in-a-lifetime experience. With only about a thousand mountain gorillas still existing on Earth today, Uganda is home to half of all these massive creatures, making it one of only three countries in the world where the mountain trekking activity is conducted. Visitors intending to make a trek should bear in mind that it’s an intensive experience that can take an entire day. Your guide will lead you through the gorilla's world, explaining aspects of their ecology and behavior along the way. It’s an adventure not to be missed. Paying a visit to Lake Victoria is also a must-do while in this country as it’s the largest lake on the African continent as well as the birthplace of the world's longest river - The Nile.
Native Tribes in Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea is the island nation of dreams and evokes a sense of wonder, just by the very nature of its remote location. Situated in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, the country shares the world’s second largest island with Indonesia. There’s no other place on the planet where you can so completely immerse yourself in isolated wilderness and diverse indigenous cultures. The islands that make up New Guinea boast more than 700 different tribes and native tongues! The majority of the population live in rural, isolated regions without contact between one another or the outside world. The Trobriand Islands are coral atolls (chain islands) off the east coast in the Milne Bay Province. In this, the world’s first polyamorous community, men and women take many lovers, giving the archipelago the nickname, “The Islands of Love.“ Elsewhere, the Melpa people, who call the Wahgi Valley home, developed advanced farming practices some 30,000 years ago. They still rely on horticultural practices passed down from past generations and live in much the same way as their ancestors. With a colorful coastal culture, rich biodiversity, amazing diving and surfing locations, and an island remoteness, Papua New Guinea deserves to occupy a spot on your bucket list. Only four hours away by plane from Sydney, Australia, this destination abounds in both culture and adventure.
The Last of the Himalayan Kingdoms in Bhutan
There’s no place on Earth quite like the Buddhist Kingdom of Bhutan known for its monasteries, fortresses and dramatic landscapes. Believe it or not, archery is the country’s national sport and passion. On hills, across fields and in stadiums throughout Bhutan, you’ll find multi-colored throngs of men in their traditional patterned robes taking turns shooting arrows at a tiny sliver of a target over 450 feet away! All around them, residents of the neighboring villages will heckle the opposition while groups of women cheerleaders sing and dance in circles in their finest silk outfits - offering words of encouragement to their team and derision to the opposing side. This boisterous cheering, singing and dancing from the female spectators on the sidelines is just as entertaining as the match itself. You should also plan to visit the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, one of the country’s most famous. You’ll have to climb up a steep and path to reach it, but the view across the valley and the aura of contemplation within, ensure that a visit here is a highlight of your journey. Ask any local what their favorite time of year is and they’ll answer tshechu. This large social gathering offers villagers a chance to catch up with friends from remote and outlying towns. It’s also a time of brisk trade and ceremonial dances. Paro Tshechu, held every spring in the Paro Dzongkhag, is considered the most spectacular and colorful.
The Great Barrier Reef in Australia
The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system stretching for nearly 1,500 miles over an area of approximately 133,000 square miles! It’s located in the Coral Sea, off the coast of Queensland, Australia. The reef is one of Australia’s most remarkable natural gifts, blessed with breathtaking beauty. It contains an abundance of marine life and is comprised of over three thousand individual reef systems and coral cays and literally hundreds of picturesque tropical
islands with some of the world’s most beautiful sun-soaked, golden beaches. Because of its natural beauty, the Great Barrier Reef has become one of the planet’s most sought after tourist destinations. A visitor here can enjoy many experiences, like snorkeling, scuba diving, aircraft or helicopter tours, glass-bottom boat trips, cruise ship tours, whale watching and swimming with dolphins. The Great Barrier Reef is one of the seven wonders of the natural world and as viewed from above, you can understand why. It’s larger than the Great Wall of China and the only living thing on Earth visible from space! Home to diverse marine life of the most vivid colors, the Great Barrier Reef offers the opportunity for great adventure, either in luxury or on a budget. However you choose to spend you time here, a day on the reef is all about the wondrous beauty of nature that surrounds you.
Christmas Markets in Europe
These popular European street markets are associated with the celebration of Christmas during the four weeks of Advent. Christmas Markets date to the Late Middle Ages in the German-speaking parts of the continent and, for many years, in portions of the Holy Roman Empire that included some eastern regions of France. Traditionally held in the town square, these markets offer food, drink and seasonal items for sale from open-air stalls, accompanied by traditional singing and dancing. One of the best and most authentic markets in Europe takes place in Basel, Switzerland. The city has a deep-rooted tradition as having the country’s most beautiful and largest Christmas market and is well worth a visit. Not only is the well-preserved Old Town radiant in the warm Christmas light, but the shops and facades of many buildings glitter with a golden glow. Over 160 traders and artisans normally offer their goods for sale in small, rustic wooden chalets. Anyone still looking for gift ideas can seek inspiration in the wide selection and enchanting ambiance. Culinary delights also abound with waffles, gingerbread and popular grilled sausages. The Basel Christmas Market had to be cancelled last year due to restrictions associated with the pandemic. This year’s celebration is scheduled to begin on November 25 and run through December 23. Let’s hope it happens.
If I’ve helped to stir your imagination, take the next step and start making plans to turn those thoughts into reality.
Until next time…safe travels.
I am curious. We’re any of these on your bucket list?
Have you taken any of these trips?